Fan Systems Nuclear
Our
Capabilities
Industry-Leading Explosion Protection
WITT UK Group stands at the forefront of explosion-proof ventilation technology, manufacturing ATEX-certified fans for the world’s most hazardous environments. Our comprehensive range covers all ATEX categories from Zone 0 to Zone 2 (gases) and Zone 20 to Zone 22 (dusts), with full certification to ATEX Directive 2014/34/EU (formerly 94/9/EC) and BS EN 14986:2017 standards. From pharmaceutical clean rooms to North Sea oil platforms, from chemical processing plants to grain silos, our explosion-proof fans provide critical safety ventilation where a single spark could prove catastrophic. Each unit undergoes rigorous testing and certification through notified bodies including PTB and INERIS.
Engineered for Ultimate Safety
Our explosion-proof designs incorporate multiple safety layers, including 10-bar internal explosion containment, certified flame arrestors on inlet and outlet, and spark-resistant construction throughout. We utilise specialised materials from 316L stainless steel to exotic nickel-based alloys and advanced coatings like Halar® for extreme chemical resistance. With capacities up to 5,000 m³/h and pressures reaching 34,000 Pa, our ATEX fans deliver performance without compromising safety. Our Zone 0 certified fans—suitable for continuous explosive atmosphere presence—represent the pinnacle of safety engineering, incorporating features like earthing provisions, antistatic components, and temperature monitoring to prevent any possible ignition source.
- Zone 0/20 certification for continuous explosive atmosphere presence
- Gas groups IIA, IIB, IIC and dust groups IIIA, IIIB, IIIC
- Temperature classes T1 to T6 (-20°C to +450°C)
- Internal explosion resistance up to 10 bar
- Certified flame arrestors preventing flame propagation
- Complete documentation package including ATEX certificates, declarations of conformity, and operating instructions
Why Choose
ATEX Fans
CERTIFIED SAFETY
Full ATEX certification with CE marking, ensuring compliance with European safety directives and UK regulations.
ZERO COMPROMISE
Zone 0 capability for continuous explosive atmospheres where other manufacturers only offer Zone 1 or 2.
PROVEN EXPERTISE
Decades of experience with 1,000+ ATEX installations in chemical, pharmaceutical, and petrochemical facilities worldwide.
Frequently
Asked Questions
What is ATEX and why is it important?
ATEX derives from the French “Atmosphères Explosibles” and refers to European/UK regulations controlling explosive atmospheres. The ATEX Directive 2014/34/EU (previously 94/9/EC) is mandatory for all equipment used in potentially explosive environments. Compliance ensures worker safety and legal operation in hazardous areas. Non-compliance can result in serious accidents, legal liability, and operational shutdown.
What's the difference between Zone classifications?
Zone 0/20 represents areas where explosive atmospheres are present continuously or for long periods—requiring the highest safety standards. Zone 1/21 indicates explosive atmospheres likely during normal operation. Zone 2/22 covers areas where explosive atmospheres are unlikely but possible. Our fans are certified for all zones, with specific designs optimised for each risk level.
How do ATEX fans prevent explosions?
Our ATEX fans incorporate multiple protection methods: explosion-proof motors prevent electrical ignition, spark-resistant construction eliminates mechanical sparking, earthing/bonding prevents static discharge, temperature control prevents surface ignition, and certified flame arrestors prevent flame propagation. The 10-bar explosion containment ensures any internal ignition cannot breach the casing.
Which industries require ATEX fans?
ATEX fans are mandatory in chemical and petrochemical plants, pharmaceutical manufacturing, oil and gas facilities, paint and coating operations, distilleries and breweries, grain handling and food processing, mining operations, wastewater treatment plants, and any facility handling flammable gases, vapours, or combustible dusts. UK HSE regulations require ATEX compliance in all designated hazardous areas.
What information is needed for ATEX fan selection?
We require: zone classification (0, 1, 2, 20, 21, 22), gas/dust group (IIA, IIB, IIC, IIIA, IIIB, IIIC), temperature class (T1-T6), explosive medium details, ambient temperature range, required airflow and pressure, and installation environment details. Our engineers ensure correct selection and provide complete ATEX documentation including certificates, risk assessments, and operation manuals.
Can existing fans be upgraded to ATEX standards?
No, ATEX compliance must be designed and certified from manufacture. Retrofitting cannot achieve required safety levels and would violate certification requirements. We offer replacement solutions with minimal disruption, often utilising existing ductwork and infrastructure. Our team manages the complete transition including decommissioning, installation, and certification of new ATEX-compliant systems.